MOST goalkeepers are happy just to keep clean sheets, but a free-scoring stopper's heroics at both ends of the pitch have earned him a Premiership club contract.

Eight-year old Dylan Forth has been tipped to make it to the top after a series of star turns for Clayton Villa's junior team put him among the best junior footballers in the north west.

In addition to stopping opposition strikers, the youngster has netted nine goals himself this season, and has put his name on the dotted line of a Blackburn Rovers contract.

Academy coaches at the club are backing Dylan, from Hyde, to be one of the next big things in the game, despite his tender years and petite 5ft frame. They won the race for his signature after interest from Man City, Man United and Bolton Wanderers. Despite being a Reds supporter, the youngster chose Rovers and is anxious to start next season with the club's other academy players.

He said: "I had trials at a few clubs, but I really enjoy playing at Blackburn. The players are better so it'll be harder in goal next season, but I'm really looking forward to it."

Dad Carl said: "We're so proud of him. He's completely unfazed.

"He's a big United fan, but chose Blackburn ahead of them. We left the decision to him and it shows how level-headed he is for such a young age. All he wants to do is play football and we'll support him all the way."

Although his hero is AC Milan's 'keeper Dida, he also has the striking skills to pay the bills, boasting a highly impressive nine goals on his CV, including a last-minute equaliser from his own goal area during a cup match.

Dylan said: "There were about ten seconds to go so I just belted it and it flew in. Everyone went mad."

A Premiership spokesman said: "Clubs are allowed to sign players in their ninth year and it is not unusual for clubs to sign players at this age.

"They are looking to identify talent at an early age and aim to develop it and retain the youngster at the club after they progress through the academy."